Former State Senator Richard Stevens Joins Smith Anderson

RALEIGH, N.C. – Former State Senator Richard Stevens of Cary is joining Raleigh-based law firm Smith Anderson, the Firm announced today.

Stevens, an attorney and former Wake County Manager, has helped recruit numerous companies to Wake County and the Research Triangle. He will advise the law firm’s clients on a wide range of matters, including economic development, state and local regulatory issues, land use, local government law, government contracting, bond financing and state policy issues.

Stevens was co-chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee during the past two years, and served as a budget leader under both Republican and Democratic majorities. Earlier this year, Stevens was ranked as the Senate’s third most effective member, according to a survey by the nonpartisan N.C. Center for Public Policy Research. He stepped down last week after 10 years in office, having decided earlier this year not to seek re-election.

“I’m excited to open a new chapter in my career by joining Raleigh’s leading law firm,” Stevens said. “Smith Anderson’s broad expertise will enable me to continue serving our community, region and state.”

Carl N. Patterson Jr., Smith Anderson’s managing partner, commented, “We are excited Richard Stevens has chosen to join our team. He is a terrific fit for our law firm and exemplifies the leadership, integrity, hard work and superior service for which we strive at Smith Anderson. We are delighted that he has chosen to devote his talents, experience and insights to our firm’s clients.”

Stevens, a Raleigh native, earned his bachelor’s degree, law degree and master’s in public administration at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His ties to the university remain strong, having served as chairman of its Board of Trustees, General Alumni Association, Foundation and Endowment Board. He also is a member of Cary Academy’s Board of Directors.

A past president of the North Carolina City and County Management Association, Stevens has taught courses on intergovernmental relations at North Carolina State University and on state government at UNC-CH’s School of Government. He also has served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Centennial Authority, which operates the PNC Center, home to the Carolina Hurricanes and the N.C. State men’s basketball team.

Stevens’ wife, Jere, is the owner of Jere’s Landscaping. They have two adult children.